France’s most popular Jamaican singer, Winston McAnuff, returns with his favorite partner-in-crime, Fixi, with a new album to be released on September 21st. Their musical formula looks as unlikely as the duo themselves: Afrocuban rhythm on piano, percussion on bottles, electronic bass and keys, and red-hot backing vocals. Winston McAnuff and Fixi’s current relationship can be summed up in two words: musical fraternity. It presides over the spirit of this third “Big Brothers” opus, like a motto of their sound. “Fraternity”, a term that can be written in French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, Jamaican patois, Reunion Creole, Afghan dari, Malian Bambara and even Eritrean tigrigna. Because the album, as musically diverse as ever, was actually born in Calais. With “Big Brothers”, fraternity is a party, and it’s only just getting started.

This fraternity that has steadily grown since 2007 between Jamaican singer Winston McAnuff and multi-instrumentalist/orchestrator Fixi – a former core member of French band Java −, the two brothers want to share it with the world. First of all with those who need it the most, like the migrants who have fled dramatic situations in their countries and to whom the Western world is reluctant to give a second chance. The touching song Crying for Love, written in Dover by McAnuff, is dedicated to them. Fraternity also radiates in the ever-soulful I Came I Saw, in which a female choir ignites feelings and Fixi’s accordion lights up the dance floor. Musically, reggae − McAnuff’s original religion − shows up in specific rhythmics, and comes through in his tone of voice − as amber as an ageless whisky − but doesn’t tell the whole story. It’s been a while since the duo casted off the ropes and let themselves be guided by the impulses of their hearts. Réunion Island is represented by Lindigo’s Olivier Araste, Cuba is tributed in the title-song, memories of Africa shine through Cyril Atef’s eclectic percussions, and traces of Angola come up with kuduro singer Pongo, onOne Note. But most importantly, there are great freedom and feelings to breathe life into this impeccable collection of songs. – Benjamin MiNiMuM